It’s easy to see why Barcelona lost this game – the Spanish side’s defensive function was primarily to cover for through-balls to the wingers. Despite this, Madrid’s midfield did not provide much protection to Barca’s defenders. Instead, they built their game down the right wing. This explains why they were able to score twice against Barca.
Barca’s defensive function was to cover for through-balls to the wingers
The 4-3-3 formation suited Barcelona’s style of play and allowed them to dominate opponents. Inspired by the great Dutch teams of the 1970s, the 4-3-3 was based on Positional Play. The wingers’ position was central, allowing the wide players to play on either side and split the opposition’s defense.
Ramos’ goal
Sergio Ramos’ goal at Barcelona Real Madrid was one of the highlights of the game. The Spaniard clipped Messi’s heel as he ran towards goal. Despite the foul, the forward didn’t react and fired the ball home. Following the goal, Ramos turned to Messi, who gave him a pat on the head.
Before Ramos’ goal, Real Madrid had been nibbling away at Barcelona’s lead. They were up by one goal before half-time, but the visitors scored a penalty in the 37th minute. Sergio Ramos’ goal, which came from a Luka Modric cross, made it 3-1. But Barcelona still had chances to win the game, as Luis Suarez headed home a corner.
After the game, Ramos sent a message to his teammates. The Real Madrid striker was speaking of his team’s late goal against Barcelona. “They need to keep up their good work. This is the best way to win,” he said.
Barca’s dominance in midfield
Real Madrid’s numerical advantage in midfield helped them hold off Barcelona. Pedri and Coutinho drifted in from the wide areas and Lionel Messi dropped to a false nine role. But despite their numerical superiority, the trio showed tenacity and determination in their defensive work. Their staggered formation also prevented any gaps between the lines, and a well-orchestrated central press cut off Barcelona’s attacks at the source.
It’s worth mentioning that Barcelona’s dominance in midfield was not due to their young talent. The side that won all of its league games last season is even more impressive, and the 2021-22 side has scored 204 goals and conceded only six. This is a record that will be hard to match until the end of the season.
Pep Guardiola’s side beat Barca 5-0 at Camp Nou in 2008
Pep Guardiola has a great record against Real Madrid, winning nine matches, drawing four and losing one. He has also a positive record at the Bernabeu, with one loss. Guardiola is now in charge of Manchester City, who face Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final on Tuesday.
Pep Guardiola’s Real Madrid side had never been beaten by Barca at Camp Nou. Pepe’s dismissal was controversial. After his press conference, Pepe’s dismissal was called into question. The Brazilian had made a mess of Dani Alves’ challenge on him, and Sergio Busquets had a reputation for cheating.
The win gave Guardiola immeasurable experience. Barcelona had not won a trophy for two seasons after the 2006 World Cup. This was his first season in charge of the Catalan club, and he was able to lead them through the first part of the 2008/09 league season. Pep Guardiola’s side went on to win the Copa Del Rey in Spain, and won the Champions League two years later.
Pep Guardiola’s side beat Barca
Barcelona defeated Real Madrid 6-2 in the 2009 La Liga final, and Pep Guardiola’s side was crowned champions for the second time in three seasons. The win also reaffirmed Guardiola’s mission as Barcelona’s coach. The victory sent a clear message to other clubs in Europe and peaked the hopes of the Catalan side. David Villa scored twice, and Jeffren Suarez also scored once.
Barcelona were the dominant side in Europe 11 years ago, and had Messi and Puyol playing the falso 9 position. Pep managed to win the Champions League once, and won domestic titles with Manchester City and Bayern Munich. But Madrid has never beaten Barcelona at the Bernabeu, and Pep is yet to defeat the Catalan giants.